International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances: Lessons from Zimbabwe

"By keeping the memory of the disappeared alive, society can challenge the culture of silence and impunity that allows these crimes to continue," writes Wilmore Tendai Chisiiwa, LLD (PhD) candidate at UP, about the importance of observing the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances.

The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, observed annually on 30 August, serves as a global reminder of the ongoing tragedy of enforced disappearances. It is a day dedicated to the victims who have vanished without a trace, their families left in limbo, and the communities scarred by the loss.

This day is not merely symbolic; it is a call to action for governments, human rights organisations and civil society to acknowledge these injustices, ensure accountability and advocate for systemic change. The disappearance of opposition political opponents in Zimbabwe underscores the critical importance of this day and highlights how society can benefit from its observance.

Zimbabwe's political landscape has been marred by a history of state-sponsored violence, repression and the enforced disappearance of those who dare to oppose the ruling party. The phenomenon of enforced disappearances in Zimbabwe is not just a story of the past but a continuing practice used to silence dissent. Activists, journalists and opposition members have been abducted, tortured and often never seen again, leaving their families in a state of perpetual anguish.

One of the most notorious cases is the disappearance of Itai Dzamara, a journalist and activist who was abducted in broad daylight in March 2015. Dzamara was a vocal critic of former President Robert Mugabe's regime and had led a campaign calling for Mugabe's resignation. His disappearance sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean society and drew international condemnation, yet, to this day, there has been no accountability, and his whereabouts remain unknown.

The enforced disappearance of political opponents in Zimbabwe is a tool used by the state to instil fear, suppress opposition and maintain power. It is a clear violation of human rights, including the right to life, the right to liberty and security, and the right not to be subjected to torture or inhumane treatment. The failure to address these disappearances creates an environment of impunity, where the state can continue to perpetrate such crimes without consequence.

The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances shines a light on these atrocities and serves as a platform for the voices of the victims and their families to be heard. It is a day for raising awareness about the issue of enforced disappearances and demanding justice for those who have been wronged. By keeping the memory of the disappeared alive, society can challenge the culture of silence and impunity that allows these crimes to continue.

The observance of this day offers several benefits to society, particularly in countries like Zimbabwe, where enforced disappearances have been used as a political weapon. The day provides a platform for human rights organisations, activists and the international community to pressure governments into taking responsibility for past and present disappearances. It calls for the establishment of mechanisms to investigate and prosecute those involved in these heinous acts. Accountability is crucial for preventing future disappearances and for restoring public trust in the justice system.

The families of the disappeared often endure years of uncertainty, trauma and stigma. Observing this day helps to acknowledge their suffering and provides them with the support they need, whether through legal assistance, psychological care or public advocacy. It also creates a sense of solidarity among those affected, empowering them to demand justice collectively.

The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances is not just a day of remembrance; it is a crucial step towards justice and accountability. The enforced disappearances of political opponents in Zimbabwe highlight the ongoing relevance of this day and the urgent need for action. By observing this day, society can honour the memory of those who have been disappeared, support their families, and work towards a future where such atrocities are no longer tolerated. It is a reminder that the fight for human rights is far from over, and that the voices of the disappeared must continue to be heard.